Dhaka, October 25, 2026 (V7N) – State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam has stressed the need for increasing green finance and the use of technology for environmental protection, saying the government is committed to protecting the environment and ecosystems.
He noted that opportunities in green finance, eco-friendly technologies and nature-based solutions must be leveraged to control pollution, conserve forests and promote renewable energy.
The state minister made the remarks at a view-exchange meeting with the Bangladeshi diaspora, the business community and leaders of the BNP in Hong Kong, according to a message received in Dhaka. During the visit, he also inaugurated the "Sundarban Lounge" at the Bangladesh Consulate.
As part of the visit, the state minister will participate in "Eco Expo Asia 2026" and the "Belt and Road Green Innovation Conference" in Hong Kong.
Faridul highlighted that the government has already made significant progress in its environmental conservation efforts, with approximately 35.4 million trees planted and close monitoring in place to ensure their care and protection. He underscored the importance of preventing hill cutting and the encroachment of forest lands, as well as recovering forest areas that have been illegally occupied.
Regarding pollution in the Buriganga, Turag and Dhaleshwari rivers, he said pollutants are entering these rivers from 424 distinct points. In addition to addressing river pollution, he stressed the necessity of promoting the use of concrete blocks as an alternative to traditional bricks.
Highlighting the Prime Minister's commitment to environmental and ecosystem conservation, the state minister also pointed to the potential of carbon credits and nature-based solutions.
The discussion covered topics including enhancing the business capacity of Mongla Port, expanding the use of solar energy, promoting green finance and increasing remittances. Other issues discussed included the planting of 250 million trees, the Rampal Thermal Power Plant, the settlement of landless people in Noakhali, land-related challenges involving the Forest Department and the cleanliness of the Sadarghat area. Emphasis was placed on the need to transform nationwide cleanliness efforts into a social movement.
Dr Shah Mohammad Tanvir Mansur, Consul General of Bangladesh in Hong Kong, along with consulate officials and other relevant stakeholders, were present.
The state minister's engagements in Hong Kong are expected to focus attention on green investment opportunities and environmental cooperation, with outcomes from the expo and conference likely to inform future policy discussions.
